Sedation Dentist – Royal Palm Beach, FL

What is Oral Conscious Sedation?

Oral conscious sedation is a pill prescribed to you by your dentist prior to your dental appointment. One of the main benefits of this treatment is that it requires no needles or face masks, and is typically recommended for adults who have nervousness, anxiety, fear, a strong gag reflex, or anything else that may make them uncomfortable in the treatment chair.

In most cases, your dentist will prescribe this pill before your appointment, and you will either take it once you arrive, or shortly beforehand. Typically, it is in the form of Valium, Ativan, or Halcion. The effects are long-lasting and will typically begin working within about 15 minutes.

How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work? 

The effects of oral conscious sedation should linger throughout your entire dental appointment, so it is imperative that you have a ride from a trusted friend or family member both to and from your appointment. For your safety, rideshares, cabs, and public transportation are forbidden.

Once the medication takes effect, you will feel deeply relaxed and calm. In fact, many patients are unable to remember their appointments at all, even after the medication wears off, which can be a huge benefit for some.

While under sedation, your dental team will continue to monitor you throughout the entire procedure to ensure that you are safe at all times. You will still be conscious and able to respond to instructions but should remain in a relaxed state.

Are You a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?

Oral conscious sedation is an ideal choice for patients who suffer from or experience the following:

• Dental fear, anxiety, or nervousness.
• Regularly cancel or reschedule dental appointments out of fear of bad news.
• Have a sensitive gag reflex.
• Are receiving multiple treatments or one longer treatment during one appointment.
• Struggle to keep their mouth open or sit still in the treatment chair.
• Have trouble getting numb with local anesthesia.
• Have had bad experiences at the dentist in the past.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation?

Because nitrous oxide is gentle, most patients are viable candidates for this method. However, it’s incredibly important to first review your medical and dental background before administering it. If you're pregnant or have a respiratory condition, we'll need to explore alternative options. Alternatively, if you experience dental anxiety, needle phobia, dental sensitivity, or similar issues, nitrous oxide could be the solution you've been seeking!

How Does Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation Work?

Known as laughing gas, this mild form of sedation is ideal for patients who experience minor anxiety. After placing a small mask over your nose, you will begin to inhale the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture. Within minutes, you’ll feel the effects and become fully at ease. Our team will monitor you to ensure you remain safe and comfortable throughout your visit. Once your appointment is finished, we’ll remove the mask and turn off the gas. In minutes, you’ll begin to feel normal and be free to leave to resume normal activity.

Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation

After the nitrous oxide gas is switched off, its effects will rapidly diminish, allowing you to return to your regular daily routine right after your appointment. This quick recovery is one of the significant advantages of nitrous oxide, making it an excellent choice for both younger and older patients. However, if you've undergone extensive restorative or cosmetic procedures, we'll provide specific aftercare guidance, such as rinsing with warm salt water to alleviate inflammation. Should you have any questions regarding your treatment or nitrous oxide, please feel free to reach out to us at any time!

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Dental sedation is safe for most patients in good health. Your dentist will learn more about your medical history and any medications you're taking to look for anything concerning. Even if you have underlying health issues, you may still be a candidate for sedation dentistry. Nitrous oxide is generally the safest option. Whether nitrous oxide or oral conscious, we will monitor you closely during your appointment for your safety.

Will I Feel Any Pain with Dental Sedation?

Your dentist can use a local numbing medication with dental sedation to keep you comfortable. At most, you might feel some pressure or strange sensations, but you won't have any outright pain. Depending on your treatment plan, you may experience temporary tenderness after the effects of any numbing medications wear off. You can manage it with an over-the-counter pain reliever and eat soft foods. Your dentist will review any additional aftercare instructions before you go home.

Does Dental Sedation Cause Memory Loss?

Dental sedation can cause fragmented memory, which is more common with oral conscious. This can benefit patients with dental-related fears or a poor experience previously.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?

Dental insurance can classify sedation as a luxury service, which means it isn't always covered. However, if your dentist determines it is necessary for treatment, your insurance may pay some of the expenses after meeting your deductible. We will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize any applicable benefits to lower the amount you'll pay out-of-pocket. Our office offers various financial solutions to keep sedation dentistry affordable, like monthly payments with CareCredit.

Will Dental Sedation Make Me Tell My Secrets?

Dental sedation isn't a truth serum. Some patients may say something silly, but you don't have to worry about spilling your guts. If you happen to say anything embarrassing, it will stay within the room.